AMES, Iowa -- Iowa State University plant science faculty have
developed a way to map how a soybean seed makes protein. They intend to use
the findings to optimize nutrients found in soybeans that are used in
livestock feed.

The researchers developed a metabolic mapping technique to apply to rapidly
growing soybean seeds. The map allows scientists to track the flow of
sucrose, an essential nutrient for the seeds, through the myriad chemical
reactions that convert it into protein, which the seeds store until
germination.

"This technique will enable scientists to determine how changes in genetics
or environmental conditions can alter seed metabolism in favor of making
more valuable products, like protein," said Mark Westgate, associate
professor of agronomy.

The research is a cooperative effort between three Iowa State researchers.
Westgate produced soybean lines and culturing methods for testing. Botany
professor Martin Spalding and his team provided the metabolic "blueprint"
for testing. Jaqueline Shanks, professor of chemical engineering, developed
the computerized metabolic map to test soybean seeds. Shanks' team conducted
the first experiment on seeds cultured in the laboratory.

"We were all amazed how well the map described how the seed converts sugars
into protein," Westgate said.

Westgate said this research reveals which genes control the process in which
soybean seeds make protein.

"Changing the genes in plants is one thing," Westgate said. "Making those
changes work for you is quite another."

The research is funded by a $25,000 grant from the Iowa State University
Plant Sciences Institute's competitive grants program. The program provides
start-up funds to innovative projects with promising futures to stimulate
excellence in plant science research.